The Upper East Region, with its unique architecture and strong cultural traditions, is a land of resilient communities and ancient customs. The Gurusi people, with their distinct traditions and architectural styles, have shaped the region’s cultural identity. The Gurune language is dominant.

Historical Context and Migration Patterns:

• The region’s history is characterised by the resilience of its people in the face of harsh environmental conditions. The Gurusi people have a long history of agricultural practices adapted to the savannah environment.

Festivals:

• Kobine Festival: A vibrant harvest festival celebrating the yam harvest, the Kobine Festival is marked by drumming, dancing, and communal celebrations. This festival, a time of gratitude and cultural expression, honours the region’s agricultural bounty.

Fabrics, Textiles, and Fashion:

• Handwoven fabrics, with their geometric patterns and earthy tones, are a hallmark of Upper East Region artistry. These fabrics, often used for ceremonial attire, showcase the skill and creativity of local weavers.

Indigenous Architecture:

• Traditional compound houses, with their mud-brick walls and flat roofs, are designed to provide cool and comfortable living spaces. These structures, adapted to the region’s climate, reflect the ingenuity of Upper East Region builders.

Traditional Games & Sports:

• Local games and activities, reflecting the region’s cultural traditions, provide entertainment and foster community spirit. These games, passed down through generations, preserve the region’s cultural heritage.

Traditional Dances & Folklore:

• Dances and storytelling traditions, often related to agricultural cycles and social events, are an integral part of Upper East Region culture. These performances, filled with rhythmic movements and expressive gestures, preserve the region’s oral traditions. The use of the ‘Kolgo’ lute is common.

Local Food: Tuo Zaafi (TZ) and millet porridge are very popular.

Craftsmanship: Basket weaving and pottery are important crafts.

Folklore and Oral Traditions:

• Folklore often reflects the region’s agricultural practices and the importance of community. Stories of ancestral heroes and historical events are also prominent. Proverbs are used to convey wisdom and guide social behaviour.

Traditional Religion and Spirituality:

• Traditional African religion is practised in the region, involving the worship of ancestral spirits and various deities associated with nature. Rituals are performed to ensure good harvests and well-being.

Contemporary Cultural Expressions:

• Traditional music and dance continue to be important, with contemporary artists incorporating traditional rhythms and melodies into their work.

Regional Variation in Craftsmanship:

• Basket weaving involves the use of various materials and techniques, with different patterns and designs used for different purposes. Pottery styles may vary between towns and villages, with unique designs and embellishments.